Being immersed in a cloud forest and breathing so much oxygen was always on my bucket list. There is something magical about the many shades of green and glimpses of the forest as the fog drifts through. The rich biodiversity and unique animals of the Ecuadorian rainforest makes it a prime destination, a few hours … Read more
Jagged peaks of the Enchantments, larches everywhere, huge rock slabs, and 3 hours east of Seattle – it’s no wonder Lake Ingalls is a popular day hike. The beautiful fall colors of Headlight Basin make for an awesome (but very busy) fall adventure, as seen below: We decided to make it an overnight trip by … Read more
One of my favorite and go-to winter destinations is Snoqualmie Pass. Just a 1 hour drive (~50 miles) east of Seattle is a winter recreation paradise. This area of Washington is a snowy winter wonderland, often getting a snowpack of above 6 feet of snow each year. Bring those snowshoes and hiking poles along because … Read more
Lord of the Rings and the Shire in real life. If you’re traveling to the North Island of New Zealand, you have to head to the small town of Matamata. This post describes my experience and pictures from a trip to the Shire in the beautiful rolling green hills of New Zealand. You will likely … Read more
One of Zion’s most popular activities, hiking the Virgin River through the Narrows is an awe-inspiring bucket list experience. You’ll want to capture the moment, so here are some photography tips for hiking the Narrows based on my two trips through the canyon during different seasons. Please see my notes about gear, safety, and tips … Read more
Endless wall of cascading water. Vivid greenery and lush temperate rainforest. The Ramona Falls hike is a gem that is close to Portland and a summertime favorite day hike. Start your hike early to avoid crowds or hike on a rainy day in the shoulder season for more solitude. Key Information Location: Near Mount Hood, … Read more
Want to improve your waterfall photography? Based on 2 years of getting rained on while on the hunt for the best Pacific Northwest (PNW) waterfalls, here are some tips for taking better photos to keep these special memories alive. Let’s get adventuring! Gear. Some of the gear you’ll need to get started photographing waterfalls include … Read more
Add New Zealand to your bucket list, well worth the 15+ hour flight (from Seattle) across the Pacific Ocean. Mt. Cook/Aoraki National Park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes I’ve ever seen. These peaks are glaciated and a high-alpine wilderness. So let’s get you some details to make backpacking to Mueller Hut … Read more
I explored Banff and Yoho National Parks (Alberta and British Columbia) in late September to early October 2018, for a long 4 day (well 5 with flight that arrived late at night) itinerary. I hope to share my experience for weekend warriors planning a whirlwind visit to visit the best highlights of Banff and Yoho … Read more
Scripps Pier Torrey Pines State Reserve Sunset Cliffs Natural Park La Jolla Cove and Tidepools Imperial Beach Pier Mount Woodson Trail (Potato Chip Rock)